Code Switch
NPR
What's CODE SWITCH? It's the fearless conversations about race that you've been waiting for. Hosted by journalists of color, our podcast tackles the subject of race with empathy and humor. We explore how race affects every part of society — from politics and pop culture to history, food and everything in between. This podcast makes all of us part of the conversation — because we're all part of the story. Code Switch was named Apple Podcasts' first-ever Show of the Year in 2020.Want to level up your Code Switch game? Try Code Switch Plus. Your subscription supports the show and unlocks a sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/codeswitch
Episodes
Mentioned books
12 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 39min
Why laughing while crying is so Korean
Youngmi Mayer, a comedian and author of "I'm Laughing Because I'm Crying," dives into the rich tapestry of Korean humor. She discusses how laughter often emerges from sorrow, revealing humor as a survival tool in her family. Mayer reflects on the complexities of identity for Korean adoptees and the impact of cultural heritage on comedy. She shares personal experiences illustrating how humor connects generations, while also addressing the bittersweet relationships with her parents and the healing power of laughter amidst inherited struggles.
5 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 37min
"The police are our friends"?
Chenjerai Kumanyika, a Professor at NYU Journalism and host of Empire City, discusses how Black parents navigate conversations about police with their children. He shares his personal journey of talking to his daughter, addressing the tension between fear and trust. The conversation highlights the complex legacy of policing, rooted in systemic issues, and the challenges of instilling safety while fostering an understanding of law enforcement. Kumanyika sheds light on historical ties between the NYPD and community relations, urging thoughtful discourse in today's climate.
Jan 1, 2025 • 33min
How celebrating an Ecuadorian New Year's tradition brings us closer together
Dive into the vibrant Ecuadorian tradition of Año Viejo, where families craft and burn effigies to symbolize releasing the past. Personal stories reveal how this nostalgic celebration fosters connections and community, even for those living abroad. Explore the emotional ties to heritage and the joy found in shared rituals, emphasizing reflection and renewal. Discover how these customs help maintain cultural identity while adapting to new environments, all wrapped up in a warm embrace of family and tradition.
Dec 25, 2024 • 47min
He was shot in Vermont. Now he wants to go home to the West Bank
Hisham Awartani, a Palestinian student at Brown University who was tragically shot in Vermont, discusses his journey of recovery and the emotional challenges that accompany it. Accompanied by his mother, Elizabeth Price, they share insights into family resilience amid ongoing conflict. Producer Suzanne Gabber highlights Hisham's unyielding spirit and activism, focusing on the broader implications of violence faced by Arab Americans. The conversation deeply explores identity, belonging, and the longing to return home amidst turmoil.
30 snips
Dec 20, 2024 • 18min
Luigi Mangione and America's pent up pain
Abane Clayton, a gun violence reporter for The Guardian, dives deep into the complexities surrounding the recent high-profile shooting involving Luigi Mangione. They discuss the starkly different public reactions and the emotional weight of gun violence in America. Clayton highlights systemic issues in healthcare that contribute to violence while addressing the societal disconnect and racial context in public perception. The conversation uncovers the duality of fear and empathy, calling for a serious reflection on how we view and respond to such tragedies.
Dec 18, 2024 • 35min
Freedom, Autonomy and the Elián González Story
In this riveting discussion, journalist Penny Leigh Ramirez, known for her deep dive into the Elián González story on the Chess Piece podcast, explores the heart-wrenching saga of a young boy caught in a geopolitical storm. She unpacks the intense custody battle, reflecting on themes of family separation and cultural identity. Ramirez highlights the emotional turmoil of Cuban and American families, along with the media frenzy that turned Elián’s fate into a national dialogue, exposing the complexities of love, autonomy, and cultural dissonance.
29 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 37min
Dreaming of a Black Utopia in Trump's America
Aaron Robinson, author of "The Black Utopians," explores the intricate history of Black utopian communities in America, emphasizing their significance during political and racial upheaval. He discusses the rich narratives from the post-Reconstruction era to contemporary examples like Detroit, highlighting resilience in overlooked spaces. The conversation also delves into creating safe environments in response to systemic oppression and envisions a more equitable future for Black communities, all framed within personal stories and cultural reflections.
14 snips
Dec 7, 2024 • 17min
Where tradwives and leftists agree
Explore the chaotic realm of modern motherhood, where the pressures of momfluencers clash with the tradwife lifestyle. Discover the unsettling comparison of motherhood to a pyramid scheme, revealing the burdens of societal expectations. Delve into the challenges parents face balancing work and family roles, while considering diverse family structures beyond the nuclear model. Uncover the importance of building supportive communities to navigate parenting, emphasizing the collective resources needed for families to flourish.
62 snips
Dec 4, 2024 • 39min
Momfluencers, tradwives, and the perils of modern motherhood
Join Sarah Peterson, author of "Momfluenced," as she unpacks the fascinating worlds of momfluencers and tradwives. Discover how social media shapes motherhood perceptions, often obscuring harsh realities like the lack of paid leave. Sarah critiques romanticized motherhood narratives, particularly their impact on women of color. The conversation also tackles rising ideologies within parenting communities and the need for genuine support systems over superficial solutions. It's a thought-provoking dive into the complexities of modern motherhood.
25 snips
Nov 27, 2024 • 31min
The 'little r' racist idea that swung the election
Astead Herndon, a New York Times political correspondent and host of the Run-Up, dives into the implications of the latest election. He emphasizes a crucial divide not between parties, but between political elites and the public. The discussion highlights the disconnect between voter sentiments and political narratives, especially regarding representation and identity. Herndon also critiques the Democratic Party's strategy and explores how demographic shifts impact voter behavior, revealing the complexities of engagement in today's political landscape.
